FAA review could pave the way for expanded commercial drone delivery and BVLOS operations in the U.S.
A2Z Drone Delivery Takes Key Step Toward FAA Airworthiness Approval
A2Z Drone Delivery, Inc., a U.S.-based aerospace and engineering company, has announced it is undergoing FAA airworthiness review for its Longtail AirDock Edition drone. The evaluation process is a critical milestone that could support the drone’s use in commercial delivery and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations across the United States.
“Our Longtail AirDock Edition is a capable and mature aircraft design that has been proven safe and reliable through thousands of miles and hours of our own flight testing and is currently in operation with customers around the world,” said Aaron Zhang, CEO and Co-founder of A2Z Drone Delivery. “We are undertaking a rigorous testing schedule in anticipation of completing this review to coincide with the evolving regulations that will govern the future of commercial drone delivery and other unmanned enterprise operations here in the United States.”
The review involves collecting additional flight test data, drafting documentation, and developing flight and maintenance manuals for FAA consideration. A2Z has also partnered with aviation consulting firms to assist with FAA UAS compliance, including environmental assessments and noise testing.
Benefits for Operators and the Industry
Completing the FAA review will help operators integrate the Longtail drone into commercial drone delivery programs and Part 135-certified operations. While not required for all operations under Part 107, airworthiness-reviewed aircraft are expected to support waivers for operations over people (OOP), roads, or property. These approvals are especially relevant for enterprises pursuing scalable BVLOS missions.
Operators can purchase the Longtail now to secure early pricing and receive any needed upgrades after the FAA review. Alternatively, customers can pre-order and take delivery after the review is complete.
Inside the Longtail AirDock Edition
The Longtail AirDock Edition is a ready-to-fly hexacopter designed for heavy-duty commercial use. It can carry up to 11 pounds (5 kg) over a range of 12.4 miles (20 km), with extended range for lighter payloads. The drone is ideal for use cases such as:
The drone includes A2Z’s RDS2 winch, allowing it to deliver or retrieve payloads from up to 100 feet above ground level. This design ensures rotors stay far from people and structures during operations.
The Role of the A2Z AirDock Ecosystem
The Longtail AirDock Edition integrates with the A2Z AirDock system—a patented docking station with automatic battery charging. When networked, the docks allow fleets of drones to extend missions indefinitely, pausing to recharge, load or unload cargo, and await new instructions.
AirDock variants include the AirDock Dual and Quad for two or four drones, the AirDock Portable for mobile use, and the AirDock Shelter for secured or extreme-weather operations.
These docks are designed for shared use, allowing government agencies, enterprises, and service providers to build scalable drone networks. An interconnected AirDock system could support wide-ranging services like wildfire detection, AI-assisted patrols, and emergency response.
Compliance and Safety Features
The Longtail AirDock Edition is designed to meet FAA small UAS weight limits (under 55 pounds with payload). It includes factory-installed Remote ID and ADS-B modules, and can be fitted with a parachute for safer flights over people, roads, and property.
These features make the Longtail a flexible platform for both independent and dock-based drone logistics.
The Longtail AirDock Edition and all four dock variants are available now. Operators who order before the FAA review is complete will receive necessary upgrades free of charge. Preorders are also available, locking in current pricing.
For pricing and customization details, A2Z Drone Delivery invites inquiries at [email protected].
About A2Z Drone Delivery
Founded in 2016 and based in Torrance, California, A2Z Drone Delivery, Inc. specializes in commercial UAVs focused on safe, reliable aerial logistics. The company’s solutions enable mid-air deliveries with minimized risk to people and property, supported by patented drone winch and docking technologies. Learn more at www.a2zdronedelivery.com.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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